The High Commission of India in Colombo has denied media reports alleging that Sri Lankan fishermen were assaulted at sea by Indian personnel on January 29.
In a statement issued on February 5, the Indian High Commission said it had verified the incident and confirmed that no such assault was carried out by personnel of the Indian Navy or the Indian Coast Guard.
The statement reiterated India’s long-standing position that a humanitarian approach should be taken when addressing issues related to fishermen’s livelihoods, emphasizing that the use of force should not be resorted to under any circumstances.
The High Commission also noted that India remains in close contact with the Government of Sri Lanka regarding the matter.
